India’s BIS Develops National Agricultural Code to Boost Quality and Practices

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is formulating a National Agricultural Code (NAC) to enhance quality and best practices in agriculture. This initiative seeks to integrate new agricultural technologies and practices, addressing areas lacking standardization. The move aims to support policy makers and uplift the farming community in India.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) announced on Friday its efforts to create a National Agricultural Code (NAC) aimed at promoting quality standards and best practices throughout the agricultural sector.

The NAC will encompass new agricultural technologies, innovative farming practices, and consider diverse regional conditions across India. In the process of developing this code, the BIS aims to identify and address areas lacking standardization.

This initiative is consistent with the BIS's other successful endeavors such as the National Building Code (NBC) and National Electrical Code (NEC) for construction and electricity, respectively.

Speaking at a workshop to accelerate NAC development, BIS Director General Pramod Kumar Tiwari said, ''While standards exist for agricultural machinery, equipment, and inputs, NAC would act as an enabler of quality culture in Indian agriculture by providing the necessary reference for policy makers and guidance for the farming community.'' Key considerations for NAC development include its approach, structure, methods for engagement, institutional readiness, and the significance of demonstrations, he added.

BIS Deputy DG (Standardization) Sanjay Pant highlighted the immense potential of NAC to transform India's agricultural sector by fostering a more supportive environment for farmers.

''Addressing the challenges faced by farmers and advocating for efficient and sustainable agricultural practices, NAC can substantially improve the livelihoods of millions in rural India,'' Pant remarked.

The workshop saw participation from representatives of ICAR institutions, state agricultural universities, and industry associations.

(With inputs from agencies.)